Project introduction

LIFE+ “RIPISILVANATURA” Project aims to control the expansion of Alien Invasive Species that are present in the banks of River Segura, and to promote the colonization of the riparian forest by native species. River Segura makes its way in many areas of the Murcia Region through a unique set of vegetation, the riparian or gallery forest (Ripisilva) which, nevertheless, is greatly endangered by the threat posed by Alien Invasive Species that are progressively occupying its space. ‘Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura’ (Segura River Basin Managing Authority) leads Project LIFE+ RIPISILVANATURA, intending to recover and protect the riparian forest in the mid-section of the River, a stretch comprising the municipalities of Moratalla, Calasparra and Cieza, through the control of Alien Invasive Species (those found outside its natural distribution area and negatively affect native ecosystems), mainly at a habitat which has been deemed as priority, gallery forests with willows and poplars.

The undertaking has a 2.454.611 € budget which is co-funded at a 50% rate by the European Union. Associated beneficiaries to the project are the General Directorate for the Environment at the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia; the University of Murcia; the City Halls of Calasparra and Cieza; and ANSE (Association of Naturalists in South-East Spain).

Basic data

Name: LIFE+ RIPISILVANATURA.

Duration: 1 September 2014 - 31 August 2019.

Budget: 2.454.611 €.

EU co-funding: 1.221.168 € (49.75%).

Partners: ‘Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura’ (CHS, Segura River Basin Agency), the University of Murcia (UMU), the General Directorate for the Environment at the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia, Cieza City Hall, Calasparra City Hall, and NGOANSE, Association of Naturalists for South-Eastern Spain.